2. What is “Greek Mythology?” A myth is a story, originally religious in nature, told by a particular cultural group in order to explain a natural or cosmic event. Myths generally offer supernatural explanations for the creation of the world and humanity.

3. What is “Greek Mythology?” The Greeks created myths to help themselves understand why things happened. They believed their natural world was filled with gods, goddesses and mythical being (muses, nymphs, etc.). They held the belief that these mythical beings had the power to affect their lives both positively and negatively.

4. Four Big Reasons for Myths Scientific Explain Occurrences in Nature and the Outside World Religious Explain the Relationship Between the Gods and Humans Instructional Provide “Life Lessons” and Instructions on How to Live Entertaining Provide a Source of Entertainment for Listeners

5. Three Important Greek Cultural Ideas The Greek considered three (3) values above all others. These values, or ideas, that they considered important were: Loyalty (good!) Faithfulness or devotion to a person or idea Hospitality (good!) Generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers. Hubris (REALLY bad!) Excessive Pride or Self-Confidence; Arrogance

6. Zeus Chief, supreme ruler (“Lord of the Sky”) He could be deceived Falls in love with one woman after another Tries to hide infidelity from his wife, Hera

7. Poseidon Brother of Zeus Second to Zeus in power Ruler of the sea Gave first horse to man Storm and calm were under his control Carried a trident

8. Hades Brother of Zeus and Poseidon Ruler of the dead Lived in the underworld Also the God of wealth His wife was Persephone Helmet which made his invisible

9. Athena Daughter of Zeus alone (no mother bore her) Sprang from Zeus’ head Battle-goddess; goddess of city; protector of civilized life Zeus’ favorite child Athens was her special city

10. Apollo Son of Zeus and Leto “Most Greek of all gods” Master musician God of Light and Truth God of Prophecy His oracle was at Delphi (said to be center of the world and answers questions asked by anxious seekers of truth)

11. Hermes Son of Zeus and Maia Winged sandals Zeus’ messenger Most cunning of gods Guide of the dead Appears more often than any other god (in tales of mythology)